Which medication is commonly used for thyroid hormone replacement?

Levothyroxine is the primary medication used for thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It is a synthetic form of the hormone thyroxine (T4), which is crucial for regulating metabolism, heart function, and overall growth and development. Patients who have hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, rely on levothyroxine to restore normal hormone levels in the body.

Levothyroxine is favored due to its stability, consistent potency, and its ability to be precisely dosed, making it a reliable choice for long-term thyroid hormone replacement. Additionally, it is generally well-tolerated by most patients when taken as prescribed.

Other options, such as liothyronine (which is T3), thyroid extract, and calcitonin, serve different purposes or are used less frequently. For instance, liothyronine is sometimes used in specific circumstances, but it carries a higher risk of side effects when not carefully monitored. Thyroid extract, which is derived from animal thyroid glands and contains both T4 and T3, may lead to variability in hormone levels and is less commonly prescribed. Calcitonin, on the other hand, is used primarily for conditions related to calcium homeostasis, such as osteoporosis, and